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Mr Puryear did an astounding amount of research in order to write this book. I won't bore you with what's inside; instead, I'll tell you why it's to your benefit to buy this book and study it:

First, you have probably already heard of each of the 4 gentlemen chronicled in the book. There's a certain amount of comfort to be drawn, as you open the book for the first time.

Second, because the book is called "19 Stars" instead of "20 Stars," you'll want to know how Patton messed it up. You won't be disappointed, and you'll probably agree in the end.

Third, in his selection of these 4 men in particular, Mr Puryear shows 4 distinct ways to get to the top of the same profession. You and I probably won't make it to the top of our professions, but to see and compare the 4 avenues allows us to consider how we can improve our lot, given who we are and where we are at this time.

Fourth, if you read the book cover to cover, you'll most likely agree with Puryear, to the extent that he even wrote a sequel of sorts called "Character is EVERYTHING."

In short, this book is not simply military history or biography, although it is both of those. It's also a case study in leadership, offering insights any of us may study and use in our own lives.

Outstanding book! How do you compare four of the greatest generals in history? That's like comparing the stars in the sky! When you compare General's Geoge C. Marshall, Douglas MacArthur, Dwight Eisenhower, and George Patton, you find that each had his own strengths, likes, dislikes, and individual personalities which were all brought together by destiny to produce victory for the allies during WWII. No two were alike. Marshall was disciplined; MacArthur was innovative; Eisenhower was a consensus-builder; Patton was bold and flamboyant. Each was a unique individual, and took just the right measure of themselves and their resources to produce the eventual allied victory.

Lucky to still find this excellent book.

Still trying to get through. Great idea. Compelling men. Slow read

Great insights into the lives and leadership of some of the greatest military minds our country has known.

Insightful reading for our new Second Lieutenant, I hope. The messages are loud and clear. Hard work, being in the right place at the right time and luck are essential.

Phenomenal book

A must read for any student planning participation in ROTC, application to a Service Academy, or application for commissioned officer training.